Mark Hughes hailed his Wales heroes after they had battled through a night of tension to clinch a Euro 2004 play-off spot.

The Wales chief had witnessed his 10-man side - Jason Koumas was sent off in the second half - battle away to hold on to a 1-1 draw with Finland in Cardiff last night.

That point, with Serbia and Montenegro drawing with Italy, means that Wales are certain of at least second spot in Group Nine and a two-legged play off in November.

Hughes said: "I can only congratulate my players. They were seeded only fourth in this group but they have achieved a second-place finish, something many people would have taken before a ball had been kicked.

"It has been a difficult group with many ups and downs, but after we were reduced to 10 men we dug in and kept what we had. It is a magnificent achievement for the lads, they have worked so hard throughout this group and now they at least have the reward of a play-off spot."

Italy are still a point clear at the top of the group after their draw in Belgrade, but the chances of Wales now claiming automatic qualification look slim.

Italy have only to beat bottom team Azerbaijan at home next month to secure top spot, while Wales finish their campaign with a home game with Serbia and Montenegro.

Hughes' side must win in Cardiff to have any chance of reaching the Portugal finals next summer without going through the lottery of the play-offs.

Hughes added: "We have survived a difficult competition, it has never been easy and considering where we were when the tournament started, this is an achievement no other Welsh side has managed for many, many years. Wales have not reached a major finals since 1958 and now we have a real chance of achieving that aim.

"When you look at the two games that are now left for us and Italy, you must feel that automatic qualification is now beyond us, but we will still be going for it against Serbia."

Wales were in the 100s in the Fifa rankings when Hughes took over four years ago. Now they are 52nd.

Hughes added: "The game was very difficult after Jason was sent off, but I cannot fault anyone."